Several people in our area now calling the U.S. their home

The lives of 33 people in our area are forever changed. Lubbock U.S. Magistrate welcomed the newest U.S. citizens in a naturalization ceremony.

Men and women from thirteen countries can now call ours their home.

As legal citizens they took on the responsibilities, rights and privileges accorded by the Constitution. Many, including new citizen Adrian Olivas, said they were overjoyed by the promise of new opportunities.

“I’m going to work very hard for my family,” Olivas said. “Hopefully my kids grow up being good citizens for USA.”

Once they recited the Oath of Allegiance and sang the National Anthem, Judge Nancy Koenig said each person is now equal of every other U.S. citizen.

“Freedom like the judge was saying,” Olivas said. “That is the most important.”

Each new citizen received an American flag, a copy of the Constitution and a certificate of citizenship commemorating their special day.

“It is close to the July 4th holiday,” new citizen Lincy Louis said. “So I think it is very emotional and exciting for me.”

The Fourth of July represents the birth of our nation, and now you can add 33 citizens to her glory.